Gaza war: What we know about Israel's Rafah hostage rescue raid

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Operation to Rescue Hostages: A Night of Intensity

Hostages Freed

Louis Har, 70, and Fernando Marman, 60, were liberated from their captivity in Rafah, Gaza, in a high-stakes operation by Israeli forces.

Israeli Military's Account

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) launched a meticulously planned mission to extract the hostages from their captors. Intense airstrikes preceded the operation, creating chaos in Rafah.

Rescue Operation Unfolds

Under the cover of darkness, Israeli commandos infiltrated a building in Rafah where the hostages were held. A fierce firefight ensued, with Hamas militants attempting to thwart the rescue.

Humanitarian Impact

While the hostages' release was a success, the collateral damage was significant. Civilians bore the brunt of the violence, with reports of casualties and widespread destruction in Rafah.

Palestinian Reaction

Palestinians condemned the Israeli operation, labeling it as yet another act of aggression against their people. The rescue mission further exacerbates tensions in an already volatile region.

Lingering Conflict

Despite the rescue, the underlying conflict between Israel and Hamas persists, with no immediate end in sight. The events in Rafah serve as a grim reminder of the ongoing strife in the Gaza Strip.